Spiritual Care Basics and Beyond

“In clear, concise, and accessible language, Joel Hempel offers a guide to pastoral care that speaks to ministry professionals and laypersons alike. It is a well-researched guide that provides practical guidance on the care of souls. Highly recommended!”


—John Allen, ACPE certified educator, SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital





“Joel Hempel writes with clarity grounded in empathy, wisdom, and love of service to others in the Spirit of Christ. His years of theological training, combined with hands-on personal experience in the care and counseling of others in times of crisis, make this book both an essential guide to ministry and a gift of love to those in ministry.”


—Edward Arle, fellow, American Association of Pastoral Counselors





“Spiritual Care Basics and Beyond sets out to be a practical guide for neophyte and seasoned ministers in spiritual and pastoral care fields, and it accomplishes more. It stands as a testament of the steadfast work demanded of the spiritual/pastoral minister for building pastoral competencies, attending to one’s own healing, and laboring toward spiritual integration. Part professional wisdom, part memoir, part witness to faith, this is a work of four decades of intentional reflection and integration.”


—Carolyn A. Wright, assistant professor of pastoral theology, Aquinas Institute of Theology





“Spiritual Care Basics and Beyond addresses Paul’s outline for spiritual care in Ephesians 4:11: leaders in Christ’s church are to ‘equip the saints for the work of ministry.’ Joel Hempel’s book is a unique, effective, and important tool to help leaders in the church carry out their ministry. Every pastor should take this book to heart.”


—Robert Scudieri, president, Mission Nation Publishing